Marlborough has been named to host the 2027 Sauvignon Blanc New Zealand Conference.
The region is internationally recognised as the home of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, having previously hosted the successful conferences in both 2016 and 2019, with the latter rated “world class” by delegates.
The successful bid for the February 2027 conference was supported by Wine Marlborough, Business Events Marlborough (part of Destination Marlborough), and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
“The first vines were planted in Fairhall and then in Brancott in 1975,” says Marcus Pickens, GM Wine Marlborough.
“Announcing this new event in 2025 coincides with celebrating 50 years since the first Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc was planted in the region.”
Today, Marlborough produces close to 82% of the New Zealand wine volume. In terms of surface area, Marlborough as a wine region is six times larger than Hawke’s Bay and 14 times larger than Central Otago, making it the leading region in the country’s wine industry.
“Sauvignon 2027 is an ideal platform to showcase to delegates the innovation, sustainability, scale and diversity that characterise our wine sector. The region is home to pioneering winemakers and viticulturists whose work continues to shape the future of the industry, both here and overseas,” says Marlborough District Council Mayor, Nadine Taylor.
“It was a unanimous decision from the Sauvignon 2027 organising committee to go ahead with Wairau, Marlborough as the destination for this world class event. The passion and hunger for this to be held in Marlborough was evident from the region. Hosting Sauvignon 2027 in Marlborough will allow us to create a truly unique and memorable experience, for both our international guests and industry alike,” says Natalie Christensen, Chair of Sauvignon 2027 and leads the committee.
GM Destination Marlborough Tracey Green says: “We are excited that more than 400 delegates will come to the region, not only for the legacy and sector value, but for the unique opportunity for delegates to immerse themselves in the essence of Marlborough. They’ll experience the varietal at its source, engage directly with the winemakers, all within close proximity to the main conference venue. Delegates can look forward to enjoying the region’s stunning natural beauty, unique and diverse blend of experiences, warm hospitality and professionalism, all of which will foster long-term connections”.
“This is a perfect example of New Zealand’s appeal for conferences – world-class knowledge and innovation, exciting experiential opportunities and the ability to savour New Zealand’s incredible food and wine – all in a beautiful, bucket list location,” said Tourism New Zealand Global Manager Business Events, Penelope Ryan.
The conference is estimated to deliver an economic impact of more than $900,000 to Marlborough.
